Page 6 of Omega's Refuge

Rex just grunted and took off toward the cabins.

“We have you boys in the Lonesome Pine cabin. Follow me,” Mrs. Rodwell said in a no-nonsense voice as she set off toward a small brown building.

We followed behind, and Steve elbowed me and said under his breath, “’Can’t you get arrested in these parts for not wearing a cowboy hat?’ Seriously?”

“Oh, shut up,” I muttered. “I was trying to lighten the mood.”

Steve cackled and put his arm around my shoulders. “I don’t think the cowboy appreciated your wit.”

“No, he didn’t seem to.” I gave a grudging smile.

We followed Rex and Mrs. Rodwell up the stairs and into the brown cabin they’d entered. I was pleasantly surprised by the interior. I hadn’t known what to expect and wouldn’t have been surprised to find cacti growing out of the floorboards. It was the complete opposite. The place was a nice mix of rustic and modern, with a large bed with a pine headboard, a TV, and a little area with a coffee maker and microwave.

A cozy leather armchair sat in the corner beside a small, round wooden table adorned with a lamp made from a vintage lantern. The walls were decorated with framed photographs of cowboy scenes and landscapes, adding a touch of local charm. A woven rug with earthy tones lay beneath the bed, and a set of antlers was mounted above the door, completing the rustic yet comfortable atmosphere.

“This is so much nicer than I pictured,” I said happily.

Mrs. Rodwell smiled. “What were you expecting?”

I grimaced. “No modern conveniences?”

She laughed. “Why? We want our guests to enjoy their stay. We know most people need the comforts of home around them.”

Steve nodded. “It’s even nicer than the brochure.”

“Thanks. Appreciate the compliment.” Mrs. Rodwell moved toward the door. “You boys let us know if you need anything.”

“We will,” Steve said, going to sit on the edge of the bed. “Nice mattress too.”

She smiled and left the cottage.

I still stood near the door as Rex brushed past me into the small room, carrying the remaining suitcases. I caught a whiff of his woodsy cologne and was surprised at how good he smelled. Iguess I’d assumed he’d smell like cattle or sweat, but he didn’t.

He plunked our suitcases down with a loud thump and moved toward the door. “Dinner is in the main house at six,” he said.

I guess I hadn’t learned my lesson yet because I made yet another stupid joke. “What are we having, raccoon stew?” Once more, my humor was met with stony silence.

Rex narrowed his eyes, but he said nothing and left the cabin, closing the door firmly behind him.

“You just couldn’t help yourself, could you?” Steve smirked.

“That was some of my best material,” I said, shaking my head. “This is a tough crowd.”

“I don’t think that cowboy likes you very much.” Steve stood and unzipped his suitcase as he spoke. “Too bad for you because he’s hot. Smokin’ hot.”

“Why would I care if he’s hot?” I frowned. “I’m here with you.”

Steve grimaced. “Oh, I know. I just mean sometimes it’s fun to flirt. But he doesn’t seem interested in even talking to you.”

My stomach churned at his comments. “That’s fine by me. I’m here to spend time with you, not flirt with random cowboys.”

Sighing, Steve moved to me. “It was a thoughtless thing to say. I’m sorry.” He kissed me. “Now, I’m going to shower. Care to join me?”

“No, I’m going to unpack. I’ll go after you.” I moved away from him.

“Tanner, are you going to be this touchy the whole time?” He scowled. “Do I have to guard every word that comes out of my mouth?”

“I’m not being touchy. I need to unpack, that’s all.” I forced a smile, hoping he’d believe me. I didn’t want to argue or get into some heavy discussion when we’d just arrived. Besides, I probably was being too touchy. “Go shower. I’m fine.”

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